· GB

Peterhead

Peterhead, Aberdeenshire, United Kingdom

Peterhead, located in Aberdeenshire, United Kingdom, is a picturesque coastal town with a rich history and plenty of attractions to offer visitors. This vibrant town is known for its stunning natural beauty, historic lan…

#coastal town#fishing industry#harbor#Scottish culture#tourist destination

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Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Peterhead.

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Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Peterhead.

Currency

£ | GBP | Pound Sterling

Population

19,000

Languages

English, English, Scots

Average weather

Peterhead

Jan

5°0°

Feb

6°1°

Mar

8°2°

Apr

10°3°

May

13°5°

Jun

16°8°

Jul

18°11°

Aug

18°11°

Sep

16°9°

Oct

12°6°

Nov

8°3°

Dec

6°1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Peterhead.

What people love

Peterhead, located in Aberdeenshire, United Kingdom, offers several pros for travelers looking to visit the area:

Scenic Coastal Views: Peterhead is a coastal town with stunning views overlooking the North Sea. Visitors can enjoy picturesque landscapes and beautiful sunsets along the coastline.
Rich Maritime History: Peterhead has a strong maritime history, with a bustling fishing industry and a historic harbor. Travelers interested in maritime heritage can explore museums and attractions related to the town's seafaring past.
Outdoor Activities: The surrounding area of Peterhead offers various outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. There are also opportunities for fishing and water sports along the coast.
Local Cuisine: As a fishing town, Peterhead is known for its fresh seafood offerings. Travelers can indulge in delicious seafood dishes at local restaurants and seafood markets.
Nearby Attractions: Peterhead is located close to other popular destinations in Aberdeenshire, such as Dunnottar Castle, Cruden Bay, and the Cairngorms National Park. Travelers can easily explore these attractions as day trips from Peterhead.

Overall, Peterhead offers a mix of coastal beauty, rich history, outdoor activities, and culinary delights for travelers to enjoy during their visit.

Enjoy your trip to Peterhead!

What to know

Traveling to Peterhead, located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, can have a few potential drawbacks. Here are some cons you may want to consider:

Weather: Peterhead experiences typical Scottish weather, which can be quite unpredictable and often includes rain and wind. If you are not a fan of cooler temperatures or inclement weather, this may not be the ideal destination for you.
Remote Location: Peterhead is located in a relatively remote area of Scotland, so it may not have as many transportation options or amenities as more urban areas. This could make it challenging to access certain services or attractions.
Limited Activities: While Peterhead offers beautiful coastal scenery and opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and hiking, it may not have as many cultural or entertainment options as larger cities. If you are looking for a vibrant nightlife or a wide variety of dining options, you may find Peterhead lacking in comparison.
Seasonal Tourism: Peterhead is a popular tourist destination during the summer months, which could lead to crowds and higher prices during peak season. If you prefer quieter, off-peak travel experiences, you may want to avoid visiting during the busiest times.
Language Barrier: While English is widely spoken in the UK, you may encounter some regional accents or dialects in Peterhead that could be challenging to understand if you are not familiar with them.

Overall, while Peterhead offers natural beauty and a unique Scottish experience, it may not be the best fit for travelers seeking a bustling city atmosphere or warm, sunny weather.

Peterhead, located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, has a rich and varied history. It is the easternmost town in mainland Scotland and has played an important role in the region's maritime and industrial activities.

Early History

Peterhead was founded in 1593 by George Keith, the 5th Earl Marischal. The original settlement was established to create a safe harbor and promote trade. The town developed around the fishing and whaling industries, which became central to its economy.

18th Century

During the 18th century, Peterhead's significance grew with the expansion of its harbor. It became a prominent whaling center, with ships venturing as far as Greenland and the Arctic. The town was also involved in the herring fishing industry, which further bolstered its economy.

19th Century

The 19th century saw further development in Peterhead as it continued to thrive on fishing and maritime trade. The construction of the Peterhead Prison in 1888 added a new dimension to the town. It was initially built to house convicts who worked on the nearby Stirlinghill Quarry and in the construction of the breakwater.

20th Century

Peterhead played a significant role during both World Wars. During World War I, the town's harbor was used by the Royal Navy as a base. In World War II, Peterhead was crucial for its strategic location, and the Royal Air Force operated from nearby airfields.

After the decline of the whaling industry, Peterhead adapted by expanding its fishing fleets, and eventually, it became one of Europe's largest white fish ports. The discovery of North Sea oil in the late 20th century also brought economic opportunities and growth, with Peterhead becoming involved in the oil and gas industries.

Significant Historical Figures

George Keith, 5th Earl Marischal: Founder of Peterhead.
Thomas Blake Glover: A notable 19th-century figure, Glover was born in Fraserburgh but is associated with the region. He played a significant role in the modernization of Japan and is often referred to as the Scottish Samurai.

Important Landmarks

Peterhead Prison: A historical landmark, now a museum, known as the "Scotland's Alcatraz."
Peterhead Harbour: Central to the town's history and development, crucial for its fishing and maritime activities.
Buchanhaven Heritage Centre: Offers insights into local history and the fishing community.

Modern Day

Today, Peterhead continues to be an important fishing port and has diversified into other sectors such as renewable energy. The town is known for its vibrant community and cultural heritage, with various local events and festivals celebrating its maritime history.

Peterhead remains a significant town due to its strategic location, rich history, and ongoing contributions to Scotland's fishing and energy industries.